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Saturday Matinee: Green Lantern!

1332456-hal_jordan_green_lanternEvery Saturday I find a movie or clip that I think will appeal to the fans of this blog. Since most of you enjoy action/adventure, I tend to focus on something that falls into that category. This week we’re looking at: Green Lantern (Hal Jordan)! Hal is one of my favorite superheroes and he’s appeared on tv and in film more than people might think.

 

 

 

 

First up is one of Filmation’s cartoons. They did a lot with DC in the 1960s and, of course, Hal Jordan got his turn in the spotlight:

Hal was also featured on the classic Superfriends series, though he didn’t get as much spotlight as I would have liked. Here’s a glimpse at his origin:

Green Lantern: The Animated Series was a remarkable tour-de-force that started off a little slow but really grew in scale and emotion as it went on. I really miss the show:

And then of course there’s the Ryan Reynolds live-action movie, which I actually enjoyed despite its many flaws:

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Saturday Matinee: A GL-Centered Superfriends Adventure

GLToday is my son’s seventh birthday so we’ll be busy celebrating this happy event. Becoming a father was definitely a life-changing event and has led me to view the entire world with different eyes. I love seeing him grow and learn… and I’m proud that he’s developing a healthy sense of right and wrong. Playing with him and seeing him come up with adventures of his own is awesome and reminds me of the heroes and villains I came up with when I was his age.

To celebrate my son’s birthday, I’m presenting a quick Super Friends adventure, one that features Julian’s favorite superhero — Green Lantern! I hope you guys enjoy it — we’ll be opening presents and enjoying the day.

Take care!

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Recommended Comics

AllNewX_Men_5_CoverAs most of you know, I’m not just a pulp fan. I also love the comic book medium and I buy way too many of them, both in single issue format and in trade. I figured I’d let you guys know what I’m reading and loving at the moment. These aren’t all the titles I’m buying, mind you, but they are the ones that I’d recommend the most!

All-New X-Men: Nobody’s more surprised than me. I haven’t read the X-Men consistently since the Chris Claremont days and normally I don’t like Brian Bendis’ writing… but he’s really doing a great job on this series and it’s featured amazing art. I can’t wait for each new issue and I’m glad to be back reading at least one mutant book on a regular basis.

Aquaman: Geoff Johns has been writing the best Aquaman run *ever* and that’s saying something. With stunning art throughout, this is one of the top five superhero comics being published today.

Batman: I didn’t really care for the recent Joker arc but overall Snyder has been writing some really good stories and the art is stellar.

Green Lantern: Yes, there’s some event fatigue going on here and Johns is leaving the title… but this is still one of DC’s best books. Strong characterization and nice art.

Mars Attacks: Fun, grim humor. Every issue makes me laugh out loud at least once and I genuinely have no idea where the stories are generally going.

The Shadow: The first arc had its hits and misses but since then, it’s been solid stuff. I’m including Year One here.

Shadowman: Supernatural superheroics are always fine with me and the Zircher artwork has been amazing. I’m gonna miss him!

Supergirl: A creative team change is on the horizon but I’ve really enjoyed the New 52 incarnation of this character and am looking forward to what’s looming next.

Superior Spider-Man: Not every issue is a winner but overall, this has been a fun change of pace and I’ve enjoyed seeing the focus on one of my favorite Spidey villains.

X-O Manowar: After a slow start, this has turned into a real winner. Every issue is densely packed with both action & characterization.

Honorable Mentions: Uncanny Avengers, Guardians of the Galaxy (loved the intro issue but it’s too new to be included on the list above) and Legion of Super-Heroes.